British night vision goggles
The XACT nv33 night vision goggle is a modern optical system adopted by the British Army to enhance the effectiveness of troops operating in low-light and complete darkness. Designed with versatility in mind, the device supports a wide range of missions, whether on foot, in vehicles, in the air, or during maritime operations.
Weighing approximately 450 grams, the XACT nv33 features a compact, binocular-style design that can be mounted on a helmet, held by hand, or worn with a head harness. Its construction is rugged and weatherproof, with the ability to withstand immersion in water up to 25 meters and built to meet strict military durability standards.
In terms of performance, the goggles offer sharp, high-resolution imagery through a wide field of view, with no magnification to ensure users maintain full situational awareness. Operators can choose from various display modes, including the traditional green night vision, as well as black-and-white or slightly bluish tones. These alternative settings help reduce eye strain during extended use.
The system includes an integrated infrared illuminator that allows soldiers to see in total darkness, where no ambient light is available. It is powered by a single AA battery, providing up to 20 hours of continuous operation. For ease of use, the device includes a head-tilt sensor that automatically turns the unit on or off when the user moves their head, allowing hands-free activation.
The XACT nv33 has been distributed among some of the British Army’s most agile and responsive units, such as the Ranger Regiment, the 16 Air Assault Brigade, and the RAF Regiment. It is gradually replacing older systems like the AN/PVS-14 as part of the Future Soldier modernization initiative, which aims to equip British forces with advanced battlefield technologies.
This new system brings several benefits: improved mobility thanks to its light weight, excellent performance across diverse environments, compatibility with current soldier gear, long battery life for extended missions, and a user-friendly display designed for comfort over long periods. All of these factors contribute to giving the British Army a tactical advantage during nighttime operations.
